Eden Hazard is finally looking to vindicate himself with Real Madrid this season after spending the previous three without hardly being noticed in the team between injuries and low fitness. The Belgian, who turned 31 in January, scored a penalty goal against the Mexican América, the first he has scored since January 20, against Elche in the Cup, 188 days later.
Real Madrid would have liked to get rid of Hazard this summer, but it has not been possible due to the lack of offers to a totally devalued player who earns fifteen million per season.
The player, who last season started as a starter, a position he immediately lost to Vinícius, has appeared at the preseason stage in the United States perfect weight, which is a novelty compared to past years. He is willing to fight for a place in the team and his versatility counts in his favor.
The Belgian, in principle, could play on a flank and discuss starting with Vinícius on the left or Asensio or Rodrygo Goes on the right, but this morning Ancelotti has used him as a point man. In the first half Benzema played center forward and in the second Hazard, yes, he was a little further behind, like a false nine.
In any case, what has been seen in this second game of Real Madrid's tour of the United States is that the team is still very dependent on Benzema to score goals. Hazard's solution seems a bit improvised but the truth is that Ancelotti (who has lost Jovic) had three other nine on the bench and has preferred the Belgian before.
Against América, Mariano, Borja Mayoral and youth squad player Latasa were left without playing. The first is being pushed to leave, like every summer, but he resists. Mayoral is waiting to accept Getafe's offer (he would only stay if Mariano leaves). Latasa could combine Real Madrid and Castilla.
What seems closed is the chapter of incorporations with those of Rüdiger and Tchouaméni. He could stay back from Odriozola's loan. It also remains to be seen if Ceballos and Marco Asensio are still in the team. Everything points to yes. But there is still a party.
